Bought a 2001 Saturn SL2 a couple of years ago. I love it except for one thing. It won’t start. Actually the problem was that periodically would not start. I had the mechanic check the connections to the starter and it was fine. When I turn the key ALL the electric stuff works just fine and then when you turn it the next notch to start it all goes off, as it should, till you release it then it all goes ack to normal. SO, being a standard, it was easy just to park on a slight incline, JUST IN CASE. Well a couple of months ago, I changed the tilt of the steering wheel and it solved the problem for nearly 2 months, THEN the problem started again and has not relented. This makes me think that the problem is in the steering column. Can anyone help me by describing what I need to look for once I get the cover off the column? I have been told that sometimes solder joints can come lose. I can solder so that would be an easy fix but before I tear into it, I want a little advice.
You probably diagnosed correctly that the electrical connections of the starter circuit in the steering column are the cause. I would go to a competent independent mechanic and carefully explain all the SYMPTOMS and circumstances and he will no doubt be able to fix it.
Just hope that you will be able to find the parts needed to complete the fix.
When I have approached mechanics about this the answer I get involves TRACING. They want to charge fairly large amounts of money to TRACE the short. THEN advise me on the cost of repairing it. Anyone seen the inside of the steering column to give me some clues?
Charging for a complex diagnosis is not uncommon. My mechanic does that and then it becomes part of the repair bill. If you choose not to fix it you pay the diagnostic charge.
It should not take more than half an hour to pinpoint the problem. At $100 per hour for a top shop rate that comes to $50. If you like the car well enough that should be a small price to pay. If a shop says they need a whole morning to find the problem, go somewhere else.
If you go to a shop that specializes in “auto electric” repairs, you will get a quick and accurate diagnoses. If you take it to a chain tire shop they many NEVER find the problem.
The problem is in the wiring and it’s gone to take a meter to check the wiring from the switch to the connector at the base of the steering wheel. It will take a decent mechanic 1 or 2 hours to figure out which wire and the either replace it or repair it.